Tretinoin (Retin-A, Avita, Renova) is a topical medication most often used to treat acne. It is sometimes used to reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles and to smooth rough facial skin. Tretinoin is made from vitamin A and is sometimes called vitamin A acid or retinoic acid. It comes in cream, gel, and liquid forms.
Side effects of tretinoin include dryness, excessive redness, and peeling of the skin. It may also increase your sensitivity to sunlight and make you more likely to get sunburned. Be sure to protect your skin from exposure to the sun (or any other source of UV light) by wearing sunscreen and protective clothing.
Use of topical tretinoin during pregnancy may not be safe for your baby. Tretinoin can also affect breast milk if you are breast-feeding. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breast-feeding, make sure your doctor knows before prescribing tretinoin for you.
Credits
| Author | Kathe Gallagher, MSW |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | James D. McMahan, MD, FACS - Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery |
| Last Updated | August 25, 2006 |
Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
James D. McMahan, MD, FACS - Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
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